China Tourist Visa for Indians for Indian Passport Holders

The China Tourist visa is a short stay visa granted by the country to those visitors who are visiting for tourism purpose. This visa is referred by the Government of China as ‘L’ category visa. Basically, visas in China are divided and represented by the alphabets. There are various visas offered by China for various purposes, and each of them is represented by a particular alphabet.

• Usually, China offers a single entry visa, with a stay duration of 30 days, to those eligible nationals who are visiting the country for tourism purpose. 
• But, in certain situations, the visa can be granted for Double and Multiple entries, too.

• The China tourist visa duration could last for 3 months, 6 months, 1 Year or even 10 years (in the case of US passport holders). It totally depends on the requirement of a visitor, but the duration is mostly approved by the Government of China. 

• L-Visa (Tourist Visa): For travel, sightseeing, visiting friends, or other non-business activities in China.
  
  
• 144-Hour Visa-Free Transit: Allows eligible travelers to stay in specific Chinese cities for up to 144 hours without a visa, provided they have onward tickets to a third country/region.

Documents Needed:

• Valid Indian Passport:
  

• Validity: At least 6 months beyond your intended stay in China.
• Blank Pages: Ensure there are at least two blank pages for visa stamps.
  
  

• Completed Visa Application Form (V.2019):
  
  

• Source: Download from the Chinese Embassy/Consulate website or pick one up from the CVASC.
• Completion: Fill it out online, print, and sign. Ensure no fields are left blank; use "N/A" if applicable.
  
  

• Recent Passport Photo:
  
  

• Specifications: One recent, color, passport-sized photo with a white background, full-face, no hat, and no glasses.
• Attachment: Glue the photo to the designated spot on the application form.
  
  

• Flight Itinerary and Hotel Booking:
  
  

• Proof of Onward Travel: Confirmed flight tickets to and from China.
• Accommodation Proof: Hotel booking or invitation letter from your host in China.
• Payment Proof (If Required): Some application centers may ask for proof of payment for flights and hotels.
  
  

• Proof of Financial Resources:
  
  

• Bank Statement: Showing sufficient funds for your stay in China (the amount may vary, but typically around ₹100,000 or more, covering all expenses).
  
  

• Travel Agency Documents (If Applicable):
  
  

• Itinerary: Detailed travel plan.
• Agency’s Contact Information: For verification purposes.

Additional Requirements for Specific Cases:

• First-Time Applicants: May be required to appear in person at the CVASC for fingerprint collection.
  
  
• Non-Indian Passport Holders Resident in India:
  
  
• Valid Indian Residence Permit: Must be provided.
• Additional Documentation: May be requested on a case-by-case basis.
  
  
• Applicants with a New Passport but Previous Chinese Visa:
  
  
• Old Passport or Photocopy of Previous Chinese Visa: Must be submitted to facilitate the application process.

4.1 Submission Methods for L-Visa Application

Choosing the right submission method can impact the efficiency and convenience of your L-Visa application process. Here’s a detailed look at each method:

4.1.1 In Person: Directly at the CVASC

• Advantages:

• Immediate clarification on any doubts or issues with your application.

• Potential for same-day submission and payment processing.

• Steps to Follow:

• Locate Your Nearest CVASC: Check the official CVASC website for centers in Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, and Bengaluru.

• Ensure You Have All Required Documents: Double-check the list to avoid re-visits.

• Visit the CVASC During Operating Hours: Typically Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM (subject to change).

• Submit Your Application: Hand over your documents to the staff, who will review them for completeness.

• Pay the Application and Service Fees: On the spot, using available payment methods.

• Tips:

• Arrive early to avoid long queues.

• Be prepared to answer questions about your application.

4.1.2 Through a Trustworthy Friend or Family Member

• Advantages:

• Convenient for those with busy schedules or living far from a CVASC.

• Can expedite the process if your representative can visit the CVASC during less busy times.

• Requirements:

• Power of Attorney (PoA): A legally binding document authorizing your representative to act on your behalf. Ensure it's properly notarized.

• Representative’s ID Proof: Your friend/family member will need to provide a valid government-issued ID.

• Steps for Your Representative to Follow:

• Receive the PoA and Application Documents from You: Ensure everything is in order.

• Visit the CVASC: During operating hours, with the PoA, application, and their ID.

• Submit the Application and Pay Fees: On your behalf, using the provided payment methods.

• Tips:

• Clearly communicate all application details to your representative.

• Ensure the PoA is specific to the visa application to avoid any legal complications.

4.1.3 Via a Registered Travel Agency

• Advantages:

• Agencies often have experience with the application process, reducing errors.

• Can be part of a broader travel package, streamlining your trip planning.

• How to Proceed:

• Select a CVASC-Authorized Agency: Verify the agency’s credentials with the CVASC.

• Provide Required Documents to the Agency: They will guide you on what’s needed.

• Agency Submits the Application: On your behalf, to the CVASC.

• Pay the Application, Service, and Agency Fees: Fees will include the agency’s service charge.

• Tips:

• Research the agency’s reputation and success rate with visa applications.

• Clarify all costs involved upfront.

4.2 Payment and Fees for L-Visa Application

4.2.1 Visa Application Fee for Indian Nationals

• Current Fee: Typically around ₹1,190 (subject to change).

• Advice:

• Check the Latest Rates: Before application, on the official Chinese Embassy or CVASC website.

• Fee Structure Variations: Some nationalities may have different fees; ensure you’re checking the rate for Indian nationals.

4.2.2 Service Fee (If Using CVASC)

• Typical Range: Usually an additional ₹300-₹500.

• Variability:

• Center-Specific Fees: Different CVASC locations might charge slightly different service fees.

• No Service Fee for Direct Embassy/Consulate Submissions: If you submit directly to the Chinese Embassy or one of its Consulates, but this method is less common for tourist visas.

4.2.3 Payment Methods

• Available Options:

• Cash

• Bank Draft

• Credit/Debit Card (availability varies by CVASC center)

• Recommendation:

• Verify Accepted Payment Methods: With the CVASC before your visit to avoid inconvenience.

4.3 Processing Time and Collection of L-Visa

4.3.1 Processing Time Options

• Regular Service: 4 working days.

• Express Service: 3 working days (additional fee applies).

• Rush Service: 1 working day (additional fee, and not always available).

• Advice:

• Plan Ahead: Choose a processing time that fits your travel schedule, considering the application and potential travel documentation preparation time.

• Check Rush Service Availability: Before opting for it, as it may not always be available.

4.3.2 Collection of Your L-Visa

• Collection by:

• The Applicant

• An Authorized Person: With the pick-up form and original receipt.

• Steps for Collection:

• Wait for the Notification: From the CVASC that your visa is ready.

• Visit the CVASC: During operating hours with the required documents (pick-up form and original receipt).

• Collect Your Passport with the L-Visa: Verify all details are correct before leaving the center.

• Tips:

• Ensure the authorized person has all necessary documents to avoid delays.

• Double-check your visa for any errors or discrepancies.

• Size must be scaled between 33mm width and 48mm length
  
  
• Colour: Photo must be submitted in colour with natural skin tones.
  
  
• Head size and position: The head must be between 15mm and 22mm wide. Length is 28mm to 33mm.
  
  
• Must be captured within the last 6 months.
  
  
• Background: Plain white. 
  
  
• Smile: Neutral expression.
  
  
• Eyes & Ears: eyes wide open and also both the ears must be visible.
  
  
• Glasses: Thin rimmed eyewear only. No sunglasses allowed.
   
• Headgear: Not allowed until used for religious purposes.
  
  
• Attire, clothing, dress code: The dress should not match the background. 
  
  
• Beard: Optional.
  
  
• Quantity needed in application: 2.

Eligibility:

• Destination: Must have onward tickets to a third country (or region, including Hong Kong, Macau, or Taiwan).
  
  
• Stay Duration: Maximum 144 hours in specific cities/provinces, including:
  
  
• Beijing
• Shanghai
• Guangzhou
• Chengdu
• And more; check the latest list
  
  

Requirements:

• Valid Passport: With at least 6 months' validity.
  
  
• Onward Ticket: To a third country/region, with a confirmed departure time and date within 144 hours.
  
  
• Completed Arrival/Departure Card: Usually provided by the airline or available at the airport.
  
  

Application Process:

• No Pre-Application Needed: Proceed directly to the immigration counter at the airport with required documents.

• Verify Requirements: Check the official Chinese Embassy, Consulate, or CVASC website for the most current requirements.
  
  
• Complete Applications: Ensure all documents are complete to avoid delays or rejection.
  
  
• Apply in Advance: To avoid rush fees and potential last-minute issues.
  
  
• Check Visa-Free Transit Eligibility: If applicable, to save time and application fees.

• Chinese Embassy in India:
  
  

• Address: 50-D, Shantipath, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi - 110021
• Phone: +91-11-26112345
  
  

• Chinese Consulates in India:
  
  

• Mumbai: 9th Floor, Hoechst House, 193 Backbay Reclamation, Nariman Point, Mumbai - 400021
• Kolkata: EC-72, Sector I, Salt Lake City, Kolkata - 700064
• Chennai: 2nd Floor, Gopalapuram, Chennai - 600086
• Bengaluru: No. 8th, Papanna Street, St. Mark’s Road, Bengaluru - 560001
• Phone Numbers: Vary by location; check the official website.
  
  

• Chinese Visa Application Service Centers (CVASC):
  
  

• Locations: Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Bengaluru
• Contact Information: Available on the CVASC website

Need more clarity on the China visa? Check out helpful resources below

China Visa Requirement

China Tourist Visa Requirement

China Business Visa Requirement

China Visit Visa Requirement

China Study Visa Requirement

China Embassies and Consulates

Common Reasons for Visa Rejection